The extraordinary creation of the Anzac Square memorial mosaic by Don Ross

Sunday, January 14, 2024, 10:30 – 11:30am Join mosaic artist, Catherine Conaty at Anzac Square Memorial Galleries for a discussion on the Don Ross mosaic – a tale of extraordinary creativity, ambition, passion, and commitment.Catherine will discuss the creation, construction, re-allocation, and preservation of this astonishing artwork that has been designed to endure for generations.Learn about Don Ross' background - as a dentist, musician, painter and silversmith, and how he was commissioned by the Patriotic Fund of Australia to commemorate the pain and suffering of members of the armed forces wounded and killed in world wars.Experience the sense of awe, wonder, curiosity, and reflection that this work evokes.Hear about the challenge of creating a mosaic of this scale using the ‘reverse method’ with panels created ‘backwards’ to then be joined seamlessly together to give the illusion of one whole piece, and the challenges of making mosaics in 1959 with very limited reference materials.Uncover the mosaic's design - unpacking the image and its meaning, including the mosaic concept of 'andamento' (flow). Learn about the incredible removal and re-siting of this contemporary mosaic.After the talk, visitors can stay to explore the Memorial Galleries - embarking on a free interactive journey from World War I to today, before taking time to reflect on the remarkable stories of bravery and sacrifice in the tranquil parklands.Anzac Square Memorial Galleries is located at 285 Ann Street, Brisbane. Entry is through the double brass doors located beneath the Shrine of Remembrance. Venue: Anzac Square, Brisbane City Venue address: Anzac Square, 228 Adelaide Street, Brisbane City Event type: Culture Cost: Free Age: Suitable for all ages Bookings: Bookings required via the Anzac Square website. Bookings required: Yes